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Where to Watch New Year’s Eve Fireworks in the UAE: 2025–26 Guide
From the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah to Burj Al Arab, Al Seef, Abu Dhabi’s waterfronts, and Ras Al Khaimah’s record-setting displays, here’s your complete guide to watching New Year’s Eve fireworks across the UAE as 2026 begins.
The UAE welcomes the New Year with one of the world’s most spectacular fireworks programmes. From glittering skylines and beachfronts to heritage quarters and mountain backdrops, the country lights up with coordinated fireworks and drone displays, many of them free and open to the public. Whether you’re drawn to a landmark city countdown or a more relaxed coastal setting, there’s a celebration to suit every preference.
Dubai: Citywide Fireworks & Landmarks
Dubai leads the celebrations with large-scale displays across more than 40 locations.
Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai
Timing: Midnight (approx. 11:58 PM–12:10 AM)
The Burj Khalifa remains Dubai’s centrepiece, combining fireworks, LED projections, music, and the Dubai Fountain.
Best viewing areas:
- Dubai Mall Promenade
- Souk Al Bahar
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
- Dubai Water Canal bridges
Road closures begin early evening. Public transport operates extended hours.
Global Village – Seven New Year Countdowns
Global Village delivers one of the UAE’s most distinctive New Year’s Eve celebrations, featuring seven fireworks and drone shows aligned with different global time zones. Visitors can experience multiple countdowns across the evening in a single location, making it a full-night destination for families and groups.
Countdown schedule (approximate):
- 8:00 PM – China
- 9:00 PM – Thailand
- 10:00 PM – Bangladesh
- 10:30 PM – India
- 11:00 PM – Pakistan
- 12:00 AM – UAE (midnight)
- 1:00 AM – Turkey
Timing:
- Gates open from 4:00 PM until approximately 2:00 AM
- Fireworks and drone shows run between 8:00 PM and 1:00 AM
Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis The Palm
Timing: Midnight
Palm Jumeirah hosts a sweeping fireworks display visible across the island and coastline.
Viewing spots:
- Palm Boardwalk
- The Pointe
- Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal (ticketed and hotel events)
Burj Al Arab & Jumeirah Coast
Timing: Midnight
A striking coastal fireworks display with open public viewing.
Recommended locations:
- Jumeirah Public Beach
- Umm Suqeim Beach
- Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
Al Seef & Dubai Creek
Timing: Midnight
Al Seef offers a heritage-style celebration with fireworks reflecting across Dubai Creek, surrounded by waterfront promenades and dining.
Additional Dubai Viewing Spots
- The Beach, JBR & Bluewaters Island
- Dubai Festival City Waterfront
- Expo City Dubai (Al Wasl Plaza)
- J1 Beach (La Mer South)
- Hatta Winter Festival — mountain fireworks at midnight
Abu Dhabi: Waterfront Celebrations
Yas Bay Waterfront
Timings:
- Family display: 9:00 PM
- Main countdown: Midnight
A lively waterfront with dining, promenades, and entertainment.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Timing: Midnight Long stretches of open waterfront with skyline views.
Al Maryah Island
Timing: Midnight Fireworks visible from promenades and dining terraces.
Additional celebrations may take place in Al Ain and Liwa.
Sharjah: Relaxed & Family-Friendly
Timing: Midnight
- Al Majaz Waterfront
- Al Heera Beach
- Khorfakkan Beach
Arrive early as parking fills quickly.
Ras Al Khaimah: Large-Scale Displays
Timings:
- Early family displays: Around 8:00 PM
- Main display: Midnight
Locations:
- Al Marjan Island
- Al Hamra Bay
Advance vehicle registration may be required for some areas.
Ajman & Fujairah: Quieter Coastal Options
Timing: Midnight
- Ajman Corniche & Al Jurf
- Fujairah Umbrella Beach
Ideal for those avoiding large crowds.
Planning Tips
- Arrive several hours early at major locations
- Expect road closures from late afternoon
- Use public transport where available
- Bring water, light layers, and essentials
